Rafist

Rafist is a term that denotes a craftsman specializing in the installation and maintenance of wooden rafters within timber-framed roofs. The word is not widely used in contemporary English and is mostly found in regional dialects, historical texts, or informal description. In many contexts, tasks associated with a rafist are performed by carpenters, roofers, or timber framers.

The core duties include measuring, cutting, and fitting rafters to establish the roof structure; laying out and aligning rafters with ridge beams and joists; installing bracing and joinery; coordinating with roof coverings and waterproofing, and inspecting for defects such as rot or insect damage. Rafists work to ensure structural stability and proper load transfer from the roof to the walls.

Common tools include handsaws and circular saws, framing squares, levels, tape measures, chalk lines, hammers, nail guns, drills, and assorted fasteners. Materials are typically timber members shaped to standard rafters and related framing components.

Training typically involves an apprenticeship or formal carpentry program with exposure to timber framing and roofing. Safety training and, where required, regional licensing may apply.

Etymology and usage: The origin of the term is not well documented in major dictionaries, and its use varies by region and historical period. In many modern contexts, the role is described with more common titles such as carpenter, roofer, or timber framer.

See also: Carpenter, Roofer, Timber framing.